Has anyone actually run a rear darkside 205/50/17 along with a 1” lower rear shock? I’ve seen both options independently on the ST1300 but not both on the same bike………..
That's only half of 5% of 205 mm, or 5.125 mm (about 0.2 in) more clearance.What about a 205/45-17 ?
The normal effect of lowering the rear by itself is to effectively increase rake and trail which slows steering.You do not want to lower the rear suspension without a corresponding drop in the front. Shifting the weight to the rear tire makes the front end light and squirrelly, and you really won't be happy behind a semi.
The CT doesn't raise the rear of the bike at 205-50-17. As for clearance issues, tire profiles vary widely. Some are squared at the shoulder and others much rounder. Rounder is better.
sorry I'm late, Tire is Hankook 205/50-17Stew1300 - wow that's a lot of lowering 2 1/4" , I'll have to check out the Wilbur shocks this is the first I've heard of them. What are you using for a rear tire?
On my 1300 I have a- Bridgestone run Flat Drive Gaurd 205/50/17 - with the stock shock. (It goes up on the center stand super easy )
Mike, I'm across the state from you in Wabasso for the winter, I've stayed here for the past 5 years.sorry I'm late, Tire is Hankook 205/50-17
The Wilbur shock is expensive, I got mine 7-8 years ago from a ST1300 guy who traded his bike on a Harley, he
also had the side stand cut and rewelded( looks orig), hard to get the 1300 up on the center stand though, I use a piece of 2 x 6 with a 1 x added .
On my 1100, the only thing that has touched the road is the tips of my boots.The ST (1100 or 1300) is not blessed with a lot of ground clearance. Unless you're a real tip-toer around corners, you run a high risk of grounding hard parts which can lever tires up and cause a crash. To me cornering is the most fun aspect of riding a motorcycle, it'd be a sin to reduce that capability.
On my 1100, the only thing that has touched the road is the tips of my boots.
Freaked me out the first time it happened; now I know to expect it.
I'll let you know if and when that happens. I just received my new T32sShe will quite happily drag her tip over wings if you're feelin' yer oats!